Why “Free Estimates” in Construction Often Cost You More

When searching for a contractor—whether for a remodel, addition, or custom home build—you’ll almost always see the phrase: “Contact Us for a FREE Quote.” It’s a marketing standard across the industry. But here’s the real question:

👉 Is a “Free Estimate” really free—and is it honest?

Many homeowners rely on the “3 Quote Method,” where they invite three contractors to provide bids and then select the one that feels like the best mix of price and personality. Sounds logical, right? Unfortunately, this approach can leave homeowners blindsided.

The Problem with Free Estimates

Contractors know they’re being judged on two things: quality and cost—but mostly cost. To win the job, some contractors may underbid—giving you a number that looks great on paper but doesn’t reflect the true cost of your project.

The result?

• Change order after change order.

  
  

• Costs skyrocketing mid-project.

  
  

• Stress and frustration for the homeowner.

  
  

While it’s true that an estimate is never a guarantee—especially in construction, where hidden issues can arise—most homeowners would prefer an accurate proposal upfront instead of an attractive but misleading lowball number.

A Better Way: Design & Feasibility Study

After years of serving as a Board Member on the Remodelers Council at the Home Builders Association of Oregon, Edelweiss founder Chris Flury developed a more reliable approach: the Design & Feasibility Study.

Here’s how it works:

• Every professional involved in your project—designers, builders, trade specialists—walks the site together.

• The team inspects, asks questions, and clarifies every detail.

• Clients hand pick the specific items they want (flooring, cabinets, countertops, fixtures, etc.)

• Each scope of work is reviewed and priced accurately before numbers are finalized.

  
  

The outcome? A proposal that reflects the real cost of your dream home—minimizing surprises and maximizing peace of mind.

The Honest Truth About Accurate Proposals

Of course, there’s a catch: an accurate proposal may not be the lowest number you’ll see. Quality construction isn’t cheap—and cutting corners almost always costs more in the long run.

For example, we recently completed a kitchen remodel and flooring update with a new fireplace and some other small additions throughout the main floor of a home. The project was proposed at $107,032.91.

The homeowners were hesitant at first, but at project completion, the final cost came to $109,654.91—only a $2,622 difference due to 2 unforeseen issues which, once identified, was preapproved by the Client before conducting the change order (per Edelweiss Construction Policy).  Instead of surprise costs and endless change orders, they got what they were promised: a beautifully remodeled home, completed on budget, with no stress.

The Takeaway

“Free Estimates” often come with hidden costs. At Edelweiss Construction, we believe homeowners deserve honesty, integrity, and accuracy from the start. With our Design & Feasibility Study, you’ll know the real cost of your remodel or custom build before committing—helping you protect your budget, avoid stress, and achieve the high-quality results your home deserves.

By keeping everything upfront from the start, we protect your investment, your peace of mind, and ultimately your trust—because for us, a successful project isn’t just about building and remodeling homes, it’s about building long-term relationships with our clients.

✅ No gimmicks.

✅ No misleading “free” quotes.

✅ Just accurate proposals that respect your time, your money, and your dream home.